Choosing A First Programming Language

If you are just getting started with programming, you're going to have to
choose a first programming language to try out.  There are tons of them, and
making the decision of which one to try first can seem a bit overwhelming.
Different languages have different strengths and weaknesses, and some may be a
better fit for specific tasks or projects than others.  For a first programming
language, I'd personally recommend something relatively readable, and
interpreted (Python, Ruby, etc.).


Python

I recommend you try Python first.  It's readable, there is tons of info out
there for people just getting started, and once you get good with it you can
do plenty of practical things with it.  There are plenty of languages out there
to try, go ahead and try some of them.  Python is really nice though.


Different Tools for Different Jobs

Programming languages all have their ups and downs.  Getting a specific task
done in one language may be very easy, while in another language it might be
a total headache.  The tools you'll end up using as a programmer are at least
partially influenced by what it is you hope to get done.  As you learn more
about programming, you'll learn which tools fit particular tasks, and you'll
also develop your own taste in technologies.  Whichever language you decide
to try first, don't worry too much about it.  After you've gotten some
programming under your belt, you'll feel comfortable trying new things out all
the time.

After choosing which language you'll want to try first, you'll need to set up
your programming environment on your computer.